Mom Of Murdered Chelsea Bruck Offers Bible, Forgiveness At Sentencing

MONROE COUNTY (WWJ) – Sitting just five feet away from the man who murdered her daughter — Leannda Bruck presented a Bible to Daniel Clay during sentencing in a Monroe County courtroom.

Circuit Court Judge Daniel White was unmoved, calling Clay a ‘liar, rapist and murderer,’ as a life sentence was handed down in the murder and disappearance of Chelsea Bruck in 2014.

“I spent ten days in trial with Mr. Clay and I listened to countless hours of him changing his story — every time the detectives questioned him and every time they brought up something new. What’s very clear to me Mr. Clay — you are a liar, a rapist and a killer,” said Judge White.

At a press conference following the sentencing Leannda Bruck described the surreal feeling of loss and disbelief:

“We expect her to walk through the back door,” she said. “Today, with the strength of Jesus Christ I forgive Daniel Clay – because if I don’t — all that has happened the last 2 and 3/4 years – will destroy the rest of my life.”

Leannada Bruck showed a grace and reserve that could be difficult to fathom:

“There are no winners in this — but by the grace of God, there will be no more losers.”